How important are qualifications (degrees, diplomas, certifications etc.) when it comes to hiring people? The perfect package is, of course, the person with the right qualifications, experience and values, but rarely is it so straightforward. Resumes tell part of a story, a polished, sugar-coated version and it’s up to you, the interviewer, to wade through the sparkles and glitter to …
7 tips on how to run a successful Pop up shop
Pop up shops are a new phenomenon, but take the concept of a market stall a stage further and are quite literally shops that ‘pop up’, operate for a few weeks or even just a day – and then close again. The term may be new but the idea has been around for years, and many pop up shops pander …
Family and friends not keen on your new business idea?
There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’ve been shot down when you feel so excited about a new business idea. Yet, it is a common story….. someone has an idea to start a business, and all the naysayers emerge. Usually family and friends. Well-meaning of course but full of warnings, head shaking, stories of doom and gloom. All this negativity …
Breastfeeding in public – double standards and hypocrisy
The “breastfeeding in public” debate is back in the news again. Unbelievable. Why do breastfeeding mothers have to feel like second-class citizens and be discriminated for doing what is one of the most natural things in the world? Kochie’s Breastfeed anytime, anywhere….. discreetly opinion has provided fodder for several of my conversations in recent days, and of all things an …
Do-it-yourself Trademarks – What can go wrong?
Have you thought about getting a trademark for your logo and wondered whether you can do it yourself? When I was deciding whether to apply for my own trademark, I wondered about the need for using a trademark attorney. I had a look at the process, didn’t think it was particularly difficult and therefore decided that I couldn’t justify the …
6 Ways Women Business Owners Short-change Themselves When They Communicate
Ever wondered how public speaking skills have for your communication? Many of the tips used in public speaking training happen to be highly relevant in general communication. Sarah Denholm shares some tips with us. —- In my work, I regularly consult with women business owners on improving their public speaking skills, and I watch women presenting to groups both large …
What is the point of New Year’s Resolutions?
Another year comes rolling to an end, and another round of New Year’s Resolutions start flying about. Given the failure rates of New Year Resolutions, it is surprising how people still persist in making them. These resolutions are generally motivated by the desire for a fresh start. The prospect of a New Year being the magic wand that erases all …
Setting up a company – Does incorporating really protect you?
“I’ve set up myself as a company so that my personal assets are protected” This statement is technically correct but setting up a small business under a company structure can sometimes provide a false sense of security. The “protection” has a lot to do with your line of business and what you think you are protecting against. What are you …
How to build a strong organisational culture
“Organisational culture is not the exclusive domain of larger organisations. Culture is something that all businesses, small, medium or large should strive to get right. – Coach Mi” The following is a guest post by Sean Conrad of Halogen Software. Building a strong organisational culture is important for many reasons. Your organisational culture helps you establish your brand. It also helps to …
The Path: Creating your mission statement for work and life (Book Review)
This book got me hooked at the introduction. It felt like the author spoke my language and was on the same wavelength. However, it took me several months to actually get through it, not due to any fault with the book, but with finding the head space to deal with a topic as profound as my vision and mission. I …